Related Links

I was born in Iran and my parents left the country in 1988 and sought refugee asylum in Germany. In Fall 2004, my family decided to move to America and chose the Folsom, CA area. I began FLC in Spring 2006.

What did FLC do to help you achieve your educational goals?

I came to appreciate the entire system at Folsom Lake College. FLC has a helpful, accessible faculty and staff. So many of my teachers took time for students, including talking outside of class in their offices. The teachers are very available to students. They just want to help you reach your goals.

What was the best part of your experience with FLC?

I’d have to say my innovative professors were the highlight.

What are you particularly proud of that you accomplished with FLC?

I became very active in campus activities, including the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

What are you doing now?

I transferred to Columbia University in New York in Fall 2007 (after having seen a table for their School of General Studies at the 2006 Transfer Fair). I have since been admitted to the Political Science Honor’s Department, whereas I will be writing my thesis about Iran-Israel relations during the 1980s. In addition, the Journal of International Affairs has accepted my proposal for an article that I have written.

Update:

Ashkan graduated from Columbia University in May 2009 magna cum laude with degrees in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies. His thesis on Israeli-Iranian relations received departmental honors. He has since returned to the Sacramento area and now serves as Placer County Co-Chair and Lincoln Chair for Carly Fiorina for U.S. Senate. His future plans include law school (preferably Stanford) and a focus on National Security Law.